Hummingbirds in Hawaii: Where to see them and how to identify them

1. Are there any hummingbirds in Hawaii?

No, there are no hummingbirds in Hawaii. The islands have no native hummingbird species, and despite occasional sightings of escaped pets, no breeding populations have become established. If you want to see hummingbirds, you'll need to travel to the Americas or visit a zoo with an aviary.

2. What birds in Hawaii are often mistaken for hummingbirds?

Several Hawaiian birds can be confused with hummingbirds due to their small size, bright colors, and hovering behavior. The 'i'iwi (scarlet honeycreeper) and 'apapane are red forest birds that feed on nectar, but they don't hover like hummingbirds. The introduced Japanese white-eye and the red-billed leiothrix also visit flowers. None are true hummingbirds.

3. Where can I find hummingbird-like birds in Hawaii?

Most likely sightings of hummingbird look-alikes occur in native forests and high-elevation areas. For example, the 'i'iwi is common on the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai, especially in 'ohi'a forests. Time your visit for early morning when birds are most active feeding on nectar. Check out ourHawaii wildlife pagefor more details.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. Best time to see Hawaiian honeycreepers (hummingbird mimics)

The best time to observe these nectar-feeding birds is during the dry season (May to October), though they can be seen year-round. Dawn and late afternoon are peak feeding times. Many honeycreepers migrate to lower elevations during winter storms, so winter visits to higher elevations can also be rewarding.

5. How to identify a hummingbird vs. a Hawaiian honeycreeper

Hummingbirds have slender bills and rapid wingbeats (50-80 beats per second) and can hover in place. Hawaiian honeycreepers like the 'i'iwi have curved bills but cannot hover; they perch while feeding. The 'i'iwi is bright red with black wings, while male Anna's hummingbird (mainland) has an iridescent red throat. No hummingbird in Hawaii means you're looking at a honeycreeper.

6. What is the closest thing to a hummingbird in Hawaii?

The 'i'iwi (Drepanis coccinea) is often called the 'native hummingbird' because of its bright red plumage and nectar diet. It uses its curved bill to feed on tubular flowers. The 'apapane is another red honeycreeper that feeds on nectar. Both are endemic to Hawaii and can be seen on multiple islands. For identification tips, see ourhummingbird pagefor comparison.

7. Are there any escaped hummingbirds in Hawaii?

Rumors of escaped hummingbirds from zoos or private collections occasionally surface, but no established populations exist. The state's strict quarantine laws make it rare for exotic birds to survive. Any hummingbird-like sighting is almost certainly a honeycreeper. If you see one, report it to the Hawaii Audubon Society.

8. Hummingbird-themed gear for birders and fans

Even though hummingbirds aren't in Hawaii, you can still show your appreciation with these items. Check out ourhummingbird stained glass stickerfor your window, or thehummingbird garden magnetto brighten your fridge. For art lovers, theHummingbird Garden Art Printis a nice addition to any room. And if you need a cap for field trips, thehummingbird garden capis lightweight and comfortable.

Hummingbird Stained Glass Sticker

Translucent vinyl sticker that looks like stained glass. Perfect for windows or laptops.Check Price and Availability

Hummingbird Garden Magnet

Cheerful ceramic magnet with a hummingbird and garden theme.Check Price and Availability

Hummingbird Garden Art Print

Botanical art print featuring hummingbirds and flowers.Check Price and Availability

9. Frequently Asked Questions

**Can you see hummingbirds on a Hawaii vacation?** No, there are no wild hummingbirds. Focus on endemic honeycreepers instead.

**What is the red bird that looks like a hummingbird in Hawaii?** That's likely the 'i'iwi, a scarlet honeycreeper.

**Do hummingbirds live on the Big Island?** No, but the Big Island has excellent honeycreeper viewing at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

**Are there hummingbird feeders in Hawaii?** Some residents put out sugar water for honeycreepers, but it's not recommended as it can spread disease.

**How do I tell a hummingbird from a honeycreeper?** Hummingbirds hover; honeycreepers perch while feeding. Also, honeycreepers have thicker bills and different wing shapes.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.